Approve Custom Comb Colors on the Actual Material
A Pantone code can set the target, but the production reference must show the selected material, thickness, texture and finish.
- Screen previews are not production color standards
- Transparent, patterned and natural materials need their own approval route
Define the Color Target and Viewing Conditions
Material, thickness, gloss, texture and lighting change how a color appears. State what is fixed and what variation the project can accept.
- Provide: Pantone reference, physical sample or approved material swatch rather than a screen image alone
- Confirm: Material, thickness, finish, texture and whether the comb is viewed alone or as part of a range
- Approve: The physical reference under agreed, consistent lighting and record when reapproval is required
For a fuller approval checklist, read the Pantone and physical color approval guide.
Choose the Approval Route by Material
Each route produces a different kind of physical reference; do not apply one color tolerance to every material.
Solid Molded or Coated Color
Use Pantone or a physical target to develop color on the selected resin or coated surface.
- Provide a Pantone code or physical target
- Suitable for selected plastic and coated products
- Approve color, gloss and texture as one reference
Transparent & Translucent Color
Review tint and light transmission on the final resin or acetate thickness.
- Clear, tinted and layered visual directions
- Material thickness changes perceived color
- Approve on the final thickness and finish
Natural Wood and Bamboo Range
Review physical grain and tone samples, with any stain, oil or clear finish applied.
- Natural tone ranges and grain variation
- Optional approved stain or coating
- Agree acceptable variation before production
Acetate Pattern and Distribution
Approve the sheet, pattern scale and the acceptable variation between cut parts.
- Tortoiseshell, marble and custom sheet directions
- Each cut part can show different pattern placement
- Approve the sheet and finished sample
Use Physical References, Not Screens
The final reference should identify both the color target and the material conditions that affect it.
Set the Target
Send the product, material, Pantone or physical reference, finish, quantity and acceptable variation.
Review the Material Sample
Compare a molded chip, swatch or finished sample under the agreed viewing conditions.
Record the Reference
Identify the approved sample, material, thickness and finish used for production comparison.
Have a Pantone Code or Physical Color Sample?
Send it with the product, material, finish, quantity and any acceptable range for review.
Request a Color ReviewFrequently Asked Questions
Confirm these points before sample approval and production.